2009 Château Branaire-Ducru
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Tasting notes
Gentle aromatics, this has a curling gunsmoke and raspberry leaf, charming and balanced, loses a little energy on the finish, certainly compared to its peers in the appellation, but this delivers an early drinking, juicy and balanced bottle. Harvest September 22 to October 8.
Critic scores
James Suckling
Decanter
More reviews and scores
The 2009 Branaire-Ducru is another killer wine from this vintage that’s drinking spectacularly well at age 10. Based on 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it’s still ruby/purple color is followed by a huge nose of blackcurrants, tobacco leaf, cedar box, and even a hint of forest floor. Full-bodied, broad, expansive, and layered on the palate, it builds nicely with time in the glass, has sweet tannins, no hard edges, and a blockbuster finish. This incredible wine can be enjoyed any time over the coming 2-3 decades or more. Bravo!
Lots of black fruits with some bitter chocolate character give this plenty of appeal. However, itâs a seriously tannic wine that still needs time to fully resolve. Drink now with hearty food or hold. Wait until 2022. (Horizontal Tasting, London, 2019)
About the producer
This Fourth Growth estate, just a stone’s throw from the wide expanse of the Gironde estuary, has been revitalised under the stewardship of former banker and businessman Patrick Maroteaux, who purchased the property in 1988.